How do I keep insects from eating my garden?
You can organically control insect pests by setting traps, by using companion planting with insectary plants, and by using organically derived sprays or diatomaceous earth when necessary.
Keeping backyard chickens or attracting beneficial wildlife such as insect eating birds, lizards and amphibians will help to keep insect populations in check. Removing unnecessary habitat such as tall grass, woody debris, and infested plants from the garden also helps to prevent larger outbreaks.
Biological control organisms, sometimes referred to as “hired bugs,” such as ladybugs and praying mantises, can be bought and released into the garden and can be effective given the right habitat and food to survive. Identifying and researching the characteristics of insect in your garden will help you to effectively prevent and eliminate pests without harming beneficial insects.